The news
As one of the COSARAF Foundation’s flagship programmes, the Fahmida Begum Foundation (FBF) continues to demonstrate the profound difference that long-term, community-centred investment can make. Our commitment to education, healthcare, livelihoods and dignity is reflected powerfully in FBF’s work in Mehran Town, where an integrated model of schooling, medical care, food security and vocational training is helping families build brighter, more resilient futures.
This recent reporting period shows not only strong results but also unmistakable signs of a community gaining confidence, skills and hope through sustained support.
Expanding Impact Across Education, Health & Food Security
FBF’s reach continues to grow, with 4,415 unique individuals benefitting from its programmes so far this year. Key progress includes:
- 207 schoolchildren now enrolled, including 13 SEND learners, reflecting strengthened inclusion following certification by the Sindh Persons with Disabilities Protection Authority.
- 3,653 patients treated at the FBF Medical Centre, receiving 5,591 appointments—a critical lifeline for families with limited access to affordable healthcare.
- 20,322 meals provided, ensuring children and vulnerable adults have consistent nutrition.
- 28 community members engaged in vocational training, with new digital literacy offerings introduced for young men.
FBF also reported improved collaboration with partners including GEAR and SEED Ventures, providing on-ground facilitation, logistics and community mobilisation to deepen the reach and effectiveness of each programme.
Behind the statistics are powerful stories of individuals whose lives have been transformed.
Javeria Naseem, 25, completed a beautician course supported by FBF and emerged as the top student, opening her own home-based salon. She has now self-funded a one-year advanced diploma and dreams of teaching Mehndi art to underprivileged girls, proving that skills lead directly to financial independence.
For Ruby Shehbaz, a mother of six, FBF’s partnership with GEAR and Imarah enabled her to take a business loan and gain enterprise development training. She now runs a successful confectionery shop, bringing stability and hope to her family.
Meanwhile, 18-year-old Zahidab Abdul Rehman is using FBF-supported vocational programmes to build her future in digital marketing and web development—skills rarely accessible to young women in her community. With dedicated teachers and extended training, she is preparing for her first professional opportunities.
These stories, drawn from diverse backgrounds, demonstrate the transformative effect of accessible education, skills training and community-wide support.
Looking to the future, FBF is preparing for one of its most exciting milestones yet: the completion of its new school and community centre building, expected in early 2026. This purpose-built facility will expand education spaces, SEND services, healthcare capacity and vocational training opportunities, enabling FBF to serve the community at an even greater scale.
With strengthened partnerships, growing trust from local families, and COSARAF Foundation’s continued support, the next phase of development promises transformational impact. For the residents of Mehran Town—children dreaming of school, mothers building businesses, young people seeking skills—the future has never looked brighter.
